Mark-Anthony Turnage and Rachael Hewer's new opera adaptation of E Nesbit's classic novel The Railway Children has premiered at Glyndebourne Opera House. The production, set in the 1980s, aims to appeal to a broad family audience while shedding the nostalgic haze often associated with the original 1906 story.
Hewer's libretto is described as dramatically effective, with a fast-paced vibe reminiscent of John le Carré and the Famous Five. Stephen Langridge's production features a versatile set by Nicky Shaw, with lighting by Mark Jonathan that shifts scenes quickly. Costumes range from Cold War chic to 1980s baggy, with props including a Rubik's Cube.
Turnage's energetic score, conducted by Tim Anderson with the Glyndebourne Sinfonia, incorporates motoric effects and train noises, influenced by Richard Rodney Bennett's soundtrack to Murder on the Orient Express. The music uses shifting strings, harp, and flute for intimate moments, with snippets from The Rite of Spring accompanying the Russian dissident character Tarpolski.
The cast is strong, with Jessica Cale, Matthew McKinney, and Henna Mun portraying the three children convincingly. Cale's soprano conveys Bobbie's awakening responsibility and adolescent angst, while McKinney and Mun bring energy to Peter and Phyllis respectively. Rachael Lloyd and Edward Hawkins play parents Cathy and David, with their whistleblowing activities given greater prominence. Gavan Ring portrays Mr Perks, James Cleverton is Sir Tommy Crawshaw, and Bethany Horak-Hallett plays the devious Yolanda.
While the opera may not feel as effortless as Turnage's recent adaptation of Festen, it is a commendable addition to the operatic canon. The production runs at Glyndebourne as part of the current season.
